'Best Person To Beat Donald Trump': Biden Says Amid Calls To Step Aside In US Presidential Race

US President Joe Biden has urged Democrats to back his reelection campaign, addressing concerns about his age and fitness. Biden argued that he was the best candidate to defeat Republican rival Donald Trump.

File photo of US President Joe Biden

Source : PTI

US President Joe Biden has called upon Democratic lawmakers to consolidate their support for his reelection campaign following widespread speculation regarding his political future due to his advanced age.

In a two-page letter addressed to his fellow Democrats on Monday, Biden emphasised his unwavering commitment to remaining in the race. "I am firmly committed to staying in the race," Biden declared. "It is time to come together, move forward as a unified party, and defeat Donald Trump."

Biden's letter was a direct response to the concerns raised by Democratic leaders and voters during the past weeks concerning his health and fitness to seek re-election as US President. He acknowledged the worries about the stakes of the upcoming election but expressed his confidence in being the best candidate to challenge Trump. "I wouldn't be running again if I did not absolutely believe I was the best person to beat Donald Trump in 2024," he stated.

This morning, I sent a letter to my fellow Democrats on Capitol Hill. In it, I shared my thoughts about this moment in our campaign.

It’s time to come together, move forward as a unified party, and defeat Donald Trump. pic.twitter.com/ABtAaJrr0n

— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) July 8, 2024

"I received over 14 million votes, 87% of the votes cast across the entire nominating process," he noted. "This was a process open to anyone who wanted to run... The voters of the Democratic Party have voted. They have chosen me to be the nominee of the party."

The US President's letter also criticised the policies and proposals of Trump and the MAGA Republicans, contrasting them with his administration's achievements. Biden cited his administration's success in creating over 15 million jobs, reducing unemployment to historic lows, revitalising American manufacturing, expanding affordable healthcare, and combatting climate change.

"We are the ones lowering costs for families from health care to prescription drugs to student debt to housing. We are the ones protecting Social Security and Medicare," Biden asserted. He condemned the Republicans' plans to cut taxes for the wealthy, which he argued would harm working-class Americans. "It's trickle-down economics on steroids. We know the way to build the economy is from the middle out and the bottom up, not the top down."

Biden's message was also a call to defend American democracy and protect fundamental freedoms, which he claimed were under threat from Trump and his allies. He pledged to restore Roe v. Wade and pursue US Supreme Court reform if reelected.

He urged the party to focus on the singular goal of defeating Trump, with just 42 days to the Democratic Convention and 119 days to the general election. "Any weakening of resolve or lack of clarity about the task ahead only helps Trump and hurts us."

Democratic Party Faces Internal Debates Over Joe Biden's Candidacy As Democratic National Convention Looms

Biden’s letter came as lawmakers returned to Washington, marking a critical moment for the Democratic Party. As internal debates continue, top-ranking Democratic lawmakers are faced with a pivotal decision: whether to revitalise Biden's campaign or seek new leadership, news agency AP reported.

Amidst the internal discord, Biden’s most loyal supporters are doubling down on their efforts to bolster his campaign, arguing that he remains the best candidate to defeat Trump. However, the atmosphere within the party is undeniably tense, with many questioning Biden’s viability as the Democratic nominee.

House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries is attempting to align party members, convening private meetings to gauge opinions before revealing his stance, AP's report stated. A private call on Sunday, involving around 15 top House committee members, highlighted the deepening divide within the party. Senior members, including Rep. Jerrold Nadler and Rep. Jim Himes, suggested Biden should step aside, while others voiced concerns about his ability to win the election, the report stated.

Nadler, the senior-most participant on the call, initiated the conversation, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. Despite some members refraining from directly calling for Biden's withdrawal, the consensus indicated significant apprehension about his prospects.

Conversely, stalwart Biden supporters, such as Rep. Maxine Waters and Rep. Bobby Scott, vehemently defended his candidacy. Rep. Richard Neal, the leading Democrat on the Ways and Means Committee, reaffirmed his confidence in Biden's ability to secure another victory over Trump, according to the report.

The internal conflict is further complicated by the looming Democratic National Convention and the upcoming Republican Convention, where Trump is expected to be renominated. The focus, many Democrats argue, should be on Trump’s legal troubles rather than Biden’s candidacy.

As the party navigates this turbulent period, former Speaker Nancy Pelosi remains a key figure. Her proximity to Biden and her influence within the party make her opinions crucial in this debate. Pelosi has publicly supported Biden, praising his achievements and leadership despite the rising concerns.

However, she spoke up last week after B Biden’s debate performance saying it raised “legitimate” questions he needed to answer. Nevertheless, she has remained supportive of him. Last week, Biden called her when he reached out to other party leaders, as per AP.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has maintained a low profile, preparing to address the issue during the weekly lunch with Democratic senators. Sen. Mark Warner and Sen. Alex Padilla are also actively engaging in discussions about Biden’s future, AP reported. Padilla, who spoke with Biden over the weekend, urged the campaign to showcase Biden’s authentic self, emphasising the importance of unscripted interactions with voters.

Despite the internal strife, Democratic fundraising efforts have been remarkably successful. House Democrats reported significant contributions, including a $3 million event featuring former President Barack Obama and Jeffries, as per the report. Senate Democrats are also experiencing a surge in financial support, seen as a vital defence against Trump’s campaign.